The second fight on the main card of UFC 261 is a rematch in the middleweight division. Former middleweight champion Chris Weidman (15-5) is looking to pick up his second straight win as he takes on “Primetime” Uriah Hall (16-9).
These two originally met way back in 2010. The fight was just the third fight for Chris Weidman and he was able to pickup the TKO victory over Uriah Hall. Of course, we know that Weidman went on to become a UFC champion so there was no shame in Hall losing that matchup.
In 2015, Weidman had an argument as the best fighter in the world. He was unbeaten and he held two wins over the former GOAT, Anderson Silva. However, that is when Weidman ran into Luke Rockhold. Rockhold took his UFC middleweight title and kicked off an awful streak for Weidman.
Weidman went 1-4 in his next five with all four losses coming by knockout. Last August, Weidman returned to middleweight after a failed stint at light heavyweight. The former middleweight champion picked up a win and now he finds himself back in the UFC‘s top 11 at 185 pounds.
Tomorrow night, he’s taking on Hall who is currently ranked ninth. Hall will look to pickup his fourth consecutive win as he continues his march towards the top of the division. With Uriah Hall, there’s never been questions surrounding his talent. All the questions have surrounded his mental focus on fighting and the UFC.
Right now, Hall looks better than ever. This is an extremely important matchup for both men and whoever wins will be in an excellent position at 185 pounds.
UFC 261 Prediction
In looking at this UFC 261 matchup, it’s very important to remember that this isn’t 2010 anymore. This is not the same Chris Weidman and this is not the same Uriah Hall. For both men, the game plan is going to be very clear tomorrow night.
For Uriah Hall, he’s got to keep this fight standing. He will have the speed advantage on the feet and I don’t see Chris Weidman giving him much trouble on the feet. That said, I believe that Chris Weidman’s path to victory lies within his wrestling.
If he’s able to make this fight dirty tomorrow, he can easily grind out a decision. Whether it’s landing takedowns or working in the clinch, the former UFC champion has a clear path to victory. However, I don’t see him getting his hand raised tomorrow night. My faith in Weidman is nearly gone and he needs to win tomorrow to prove to me that he’s back. I think Hall gets it done and I’m not sure it goes the distance.
Prediction: Uriah Hall by TKO – Round 3